Merry Noel Rice, beloved family matriarch, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, at her residence in Presidential Oaks. Born on December 25, 1949, in Concord, New Hampshire to Richard Hanson and Pauline (Hillsgrove) Hanson, Merry spent her formative years in the Concord area before making Weare her lifelong home for over 45 years.

Merry’s education was rooted in her hometown, where she graduated from Merrimack High School. Alongside her husband, Rose, she successfully managed their own businesses for more than a decade. Later, Merry devoted 17 years to administrative work for the town of Weare NH, where many knew her as “Psycho”.

Throughout her life, Merry embraced life with passion and joy. She cherished weekends at the beach, often taking her convertible for sunny drives with her music turned up full volume where you would hear her voice of an angel, fully immersing herself in the simple pleasures of life. Her love for cooking was well-enjoyed among family and friends, always preparing enough to enjoy leftovers. Additionally, she found enjoyment in visiting casinos, where she was particularly fond of the slot machines.

Her greatest source of pride and happiness was her family, especially the time spent with her grandson Alexander, whom watching him grow up brought Merry immense joy and fulfillment.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Rose Rice; her son Richard Rice and his wife, Hope; her cherished grandson, Alexander Rice, along with his wife, Lyndsie; her great-grandchildren Olivia Jacqueline, Harper Elizabeth, and Hudson Alexander; her closest nieces Patti and Mona and the rest of the extended Rice family.

Merry was preceded in death by her sister and life-long best friend, Sharon Hanson, and her parents, Richard and Pauline Hanson.

Merry Noel Rice’s life was characterized by her love and dedication to her family. Merry will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to call her family and friend, including the casinos of Connecticut and Las Vegas, where she made many generous contributions.

A celebration of Merry's life will be held privately by the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Salvation Army in Merry's memory.